Versay-Trek
Versay Trek is considered as one of the most beautiful by nature lovers.
Versay Trek takes you through the Rhododendron forests, steep hills. The journey starts at Bagdogra, through Gangtok, Hilley, reaches Versay. The journey is a combination of drive and trek, thus not making you tiresome. There are three points of entry, Hilley, Dentam and Soreng for this trek. The trek gives you an opportunity to visit the famous Tibetian monasteries, Institute of Tibetology etc. The night stay in camps is another experience you will cherish long in your memories.
The trekkers huts are located in the most picturesque of all locations. The lofty mountains give you a feeling of a dwarf. This place imparts magnificent views of Mt.Pandim, Tenzing Khang, Kanchanjunga and Kokthang Himalayas. This trek can be further extended to Taal (dry lake) Kalijhar,Thuloodhap etc. The teeming variety of orchids and specie of birds, for which the region is famous, offer you breathtaking views on way back.
Major Attractions
Hilley: A picturesque place is placed at an elevation of 2,700m and nestled with lush forests of pines and firs. It provides the majestic views of nearby places. Hilley is the main entry point for Versay trek.
Institute of Tibetology: It comprises many religious works and a collection of rare manuscripts and more than 200 Buddhist icons. This world famous institute is second to none!
How to get there
By Air: Sikkim doesnt have any airport, but the nearest Airport is Bagdogra (near Siliguri) in West Bengal, which lays only 125kms away from Gangtok the capital of Sikkim. Bagdogra linked with cities like Delhi and Kolkata.
By Road: Sikkim can be reached through northern areas of West Bengal. Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Siliguri are directly connected to Gangtok and other cities of the state. Avoid traveling during the monsoon seasons. Temporary problems may occur.
By Rail: The nearest Railways Station is New Jalpaiguri (near Siliguri), which is linked with Gangtok. Gangtok has an extensive rail network with major Railway Stations in India, such as Kolkata, Delhi. It is also linked with the cities of Northeastern India like, Guwahati.
Best time to visit: March to mid May and September to November mid.
Prerequisites/Facts/Suggestions
- Do not bring drugs or any illegal stuff to India.
- This moderate trek requires normal or average fitness.
- The maximum height of this trek is 10000ft.
- Remove your shoes outside and try not to wear offensive clothes during your visit to monasteries.
- Tourists are required to get permissions.
- The equipments from camping as well as trekking are available on rent.
- Do not buy endangered animal or local plant products.
Things to Carry
- Walking stick
- Binoculars
- Sleeping bag
- Hiking shoes
- Woolen clothes
- Water, juices, snacks
- Electric torch
- Medical kit
- A good compass
- An extra pair of clothes
Other Attractions in the Vicinity
Pemayangtse monastery: Located very near to Pelling, Pemayangtse monastery is set at an altitude of about 2105 m. The main hall of the monastery is around 180 square meters, which puts up rare religious idols and other tools of worship. Many of the antique things are very precious.
Pelling: Pelling was an ordinary village with a few houses. But now this place has developed as a famous tourist spot over the last few years.
Fambrong waterfall: Fambrong imparts an extravagant sight. Fambrong waterfalls are set around 10 km from Tashiding.